Unspoken Career Truths

From nightmare bosses to subtle manipulation, not all toxic bosses look the same! Misreading the signs can cost you your sanity, your confidence, and your career. In this episode, we break down the 3 levels of toxic leadership, how to spot them early, and what to do to get the boss of your dreams. Cara and Lauren unpack real signs, share relatable examples (yes, including our favorite fictional villains), and talk honestly about how to rebuild after working for a toxic leader.

Ever feel like you’re doing everything right at work and somehow still getting blindsided?In this episode, Lauren and Cara break down the underrated skill that can change everything: managing up. From meetings that go completely off the rails to the invisible dynamics that shape how decisions actually get made, they unpack what’s really going on behind the scenes.You’ll learn how to:Understand what your manager actually cares about (hint: it’s not always what they say)Communicate in a way that gets heard—and acted onAvoid the “I thought we were aligned” trapSet your boss (and yourself) up for success without feeling manipulativeThis isn’t about being political or manipulative. It’s about making your work land, your voice count, and your life a whole lot easier.

Is “lead by example” the golden rule of leadership, or is it incomplete?In this episode of Wisdom Under Fire, Cara and Lauren unpack the origins of this familiar phrase, from ancient philosophy to modern leadership thinking. Part leadership playbook, part reality check, the conversation might make you rethink how you show up every day.If you answer emails on weekends… your team probably feels like they have to.
If you jump in and do the work… your team won’t forget it.We share stories from the workplace, questioning whether example is enough, and asking a bigger question: What do people actually follow—your actions or your vision?

If you’ve ever thought, “I want to be a great manager” this episode will crystalize how. We discuss the ins and outs of servant leadership. Lauren and Cara talk about burnout, boundaries, invisible wins, and why leadership isn’t about picking a single style. If you're navigating early leadership roles, balancing ambition with empathy, or figuring out your management style, this episode will give you a more honest, modern framework for leading.

New leader? Don’t panic, this episode has you covered. Cara and Lauren share the first hurdles you’ll face when managing people, projects, and expectations. Learn how to prioritize your team, communicate effectively, make critical decisions, and define your leadership style without losing yourself in the process. From navigating relationships with former peers to taking your seat at a new table of other managers, they share practical tips, personal stories, and leadership lessons every new manager needs to thrive.

If networking feels fake or uncomfortable, you’re doing it wrong. This episode covers how to build real connections that open doors—without forcing yourself into someone else’s style. Cara and Lauren discuss a more authentic approach to networking—one rooted in curiosity, small intentional actions, and genuine connection. You’ll learn how to start conversations without the awkwardness, build relationships over time, and use simple strategies to turn everyday interactions into real opportunities.

Resilience isn’t something you are—it’s something you build. Cara and Lauren break down the science, share real-life strategies, and show how to create your own “moat” to handle stress, burnout, and change.

Empathy isn’t just a “nice-to-have.” It’s the skill that separates good managers from great leaders. In this episode, Cara and Lauren explore how empathy drives trust, engagement, and performance at work, even in a world full of automation and AI.Learn actionable strategies to:Understand and respond to the emotions of your teamPractice active listening and perspective-takingUse empathy to navigate cultural, generational, and organizational differencesLead with kindness without sacrificing resultsFrom small gestures on the commute to guiding your team through change, this episode shows how empathy creates better workplaces, stronger teams, and more effective leaders.

Ever wonder why some people can walk into a meeting and change the energy in the room? In this episode, Cara and Lauren break down effective presence: the invisible skill that makes you more influential, persuasive, and memorable at work.Learn how to:Read the room and respond to moods before they derail your teamUse your energy intentionally — without faking it — to guide outcomesBalance leadership presence with personal boundaries, even in hybrid or remote workTurn natural tendencies into strengths, and spot where they might backfireWhether you’re leading a team, presenting on Zoom, or navigating office dynamics, this episode gives you actionable strategies to influence, inspire, and show up with impact every single day. Mentioned in this episode: https://www.ted.com/speakers/camille_brown

Everyone says mentorship matters for career growth.But not every stage of your career calls for a mentor.In this episode, Cara and Lauren break down the difference between mentoring and coaching and how knowing which kind of support you need can shape your professional development.They unpack:The real difference between a mentor and a coachWhen to seek skill-based coaching vs long-term guidanceHow to ask for mentorship without making it awkwardHow leaders can coach without trying to mentor everyoneIf you’re early or mid-career and building your support system intentionally, this episode offers a clear framework for getting the right kind of guidance at the right time.

If you’ve ever wondered whether teamwork really makes work better — or just more complicated — this conversation offers a more honest framework.We interrogate the popular phrase “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together” — and asks whether it actually reflects how work, progress, and collaboration function today.Cara and Lauren unpack the historical roots of the saying, explore how collective progress has shaped everything from women’s rights to modern organizations, and examine whether AI meaningfully changes what “working together” even means.

As AI removes “starter tasks,” remote work reduces organic connection, and career paths become less linear, community is no longer optional—especially for early-career professionals. In this episode, Lauren and Cara break down what community really means, why it drives performance and belonging, and how to build it intentionally. From being generous with context to showing up consistently, we share tangible ways to create spaces where you can grow, learn, and feel like you belong—because no one builds a career alone.

AI is everywhere. Hybrid work is here to stay. Productivity is under the microscope. So… what still makes good teamwork possible?In this episode, Cara and Lauren take a look at the future of work by focusing on what they don’t want to lose. From great teamwork to shared celebrations, they explore the elements of work culture that never go out of style even as everything else changes.There’s practical advice for leaders and individual contributors alike: understand your company’s policies, set clear expectations, focus on outcomes, and create environments where people feel safe to learn and experiment.If you’re navigating the future of work and wondering how to hold onto the parts of your job that make it meaningful, this episode is a reminder that the best teams don’t just deliver results, they celebrate wins and trust each other. Article on real AI impact on the workplace

Navigating a multi-generational workplace isn’t always easy, but it’s more important than ever. In this episode, Lauren and Cara explore the generational divide and share practical strategies for improving workplace communication, setting boundaries, and leveraging the unique strengths of every generation. From understanding why a Gen Z team member prefers texting to why a Boomer might avoid instant messaging, they break down real-world examples and actionable tips to help teams work together more effectively. Whether you’re managing a multi-generational team or collaborating across age groups, this conversation offers insight, humor, and guidance for building a workplace where everyone can thrive.

When new management comes in, it’s hard not to wonder what it means for your job. In response to a listener question, Cara and Lauren unpack a familiar but rarely discussed scenario: a company acquisition, the introduction of an external agency, and the quiet fear that job security might be fragile.This anxiety is valid, but more responsibility can actually signal trust. Learn how a role shift might be a secret promotion in disguise. If you’re navigating change, new management, or questioning what your role really means right now, this episode is for you. Thank you Amy to sending in your question! Share your questions the the contact us for at unspokencareerthruths.com.

What does it actually mean to work alongside AI?In this episode we break down the future of work through a clear, practical lens: AI as a coworker, not a replacement. Together, we unpack the difference between generative AI and agentic AI, where automation helps (and where it absolutely shouldn’t), and why humans still own judgment, context, and responsibility.You’ll hear how to think about AI like a real hire—what guardrails matter, how trust is earned, and why speed without strategy can make things worse, not better. From healthcare and climate prediction to content, leadership, and performance metrics, this conversation reframes AI as a tool that reflects our incentives—for better or worse.If you’re navigating AI at work and wondering how to stay relevant, ethical, and in control, this episode gives you a grounded way forward.

The economy gets blamed for everything—but what does it actually mean for your career?In this episode, we translate today’s biggest economic headlines into real workplace implications. We break down interest rates, inflation, unemployment, and explain how they affect raises, job security, and career decisions. You’ll learn why economic forecasts are always uncertain, how CPI can quietly signal a pay cut, and why “job hugging” is reshaping workplace leverage. Most importantly, we focus on what you can control: understanding how your role is funded, building transferable skills, and making smart career moves without panic or hype. Recommended reading: Naked Economics by Charles Wheelan

We're back in your feed every Thursday to be the co-workers you can trust. There's so much changing in the world! And Lauren thinks bell bottoms might make a comeback... so there's a LOT to discuss. This season we're going to be focusing on providing you resources and information on how best to navigate changes and succeed without burning out or selling your soul. Season 2 Trailer for Unspoken Career Truths.

We’re told to find our purpose, like it’s hiding somewhere waiting to be discovered. But what if purpose isn’t something you find, it’s something you build? In this week’s Wisdom Under Fire, Lauren Livak Gilbert and Cara Wood unpack the pressure behind the phrase “find your purpose” and share how their own definitions have evolved over time. From life-changing realizations to small, everyday choices, they explore how purpose can shift with each season of life.

The holidays at the office bring a strange mix of sparkle and strain. One moment you are laughing with coworkers at a team party. The next you are wondering how to set a boundary without feeling like the difficult one. We share the quiet truths about connection at work during a season that can feel louder than usual.By the end, you might find yourself seeing this time of year a little differently.

Not all power is loud or forceful. In this episode of Unspoken Career Truths, Lauren Livak Gilbert and Cara Wood unpack the underestimated art of soft power—the ability to influence through credibility, connection, and authenticity rather than authority. They explore how emotional intelligence, communication, and presence can drive real impact (and why soft power often fuels the biggest shifts behind the scenes).

There is a moment many of us recognize. You look at your PTO balance and realize you have not taken a real break in months. Maybe it feels risky to step away. Maybe you worry about the pile waiting when you return. Or maybe rest has become one more thing you have to manage. In this conversation, we unpack the quiet pressures around taking time off, the habits we pick up from teams and past jobs, and the small ways we learn to give ourselves permission to rest.

What happens when “assume best intent” collides with workplace reality?It’s a phrase that’s been echoed everywhere from ancient texts to modern boardrooms. In this episode of Wisdom Under Fire, Cara and Lauren unpack one of the most quoted — and most misunderstood — pieces of modern leadership advice. We found a reframe for the phrase that adds a powerful twist. This is a must-listen for anyone navigating trust, feedback, and conflict at work or at home.When should you extend grace, draw boundaries, and how can you better balance empathy with accountability? We tackle how “assuming best intent” can strengthen relationships, reduce emotional reactivity, and build psychological safety — but also why it can’t excuse bad behavior or toxic patterns.

Buckle up for a little acronym therapy. In this episode of Unspoken Career Truths, Lauren Livak Gilbert and Cara Wood dive into the alphabet soup of corporate life and laugh about how we all pretend to know what they mean.Decode the alphabet soup of corporate life: OKRs, KPIs, ROI, CRM, TL;DR and the company-specific acronyms that make you wonder if you missed a secret onboarding. We explore how acronyms shape communication, inclusion, and credibility at work and when corporate jargon becomes a barrier instead of a shortcut. From the “three tiers of acronyms”, learn how to ask for clarity with confidence and avoid the buzzword trap. It’s equal parts corporate comedy and practical communication guide.Keywords:

Change is inevitable, often difficult, and it’s also how we grow. Learn to navigate change at work with more resilience, adaptability, and calm.In this episode, we explore what it really means to navigate change at work—from new leaders and shifting teams to evolving technology and workplace culture. Cara and Lauren share stories, humor, and practical frameworks for developing emotional intelligence and adaptability in the face of uncertainty.You’ll learn how to identify your personal “change style,” lead through transitions with empathy, and practice true change management without burnout. Discover why resistance is a natural first step, how resilience is built through experience, and what it takes to help teams thrive through transformation. Whether you’re managing change or simply surviving it, this episode will help you find steadiness in motion—and maybe even learn to welcome it.

Will AI take your job—or make it better than ever? The future of work isn’t about replacement; it’s about reinvention. Learn how to supercharge your career by partnering with AI, not fearing it.In this episode of Unspoken Career Truths, hosts Lauren and Cara dive into one of the most urgent and misunderstood conversations happening in offices everywhere: the role of artificial intelligence at work. Whether you’re experimenting with ChatGPT, Gemini, or Claude, or simply wondering what AI means for your job, this episode unpacks how to use it strategically—to think sharper, create faster, and lead smarter—without losing what makes you human.AI is reshaping the modern workplace, from how we write emails to how we brainstorm, analyze data, and make decisions. But beneath the hype, there’s confusion and fear: Will AI automate everything? Am I falling behind? Lauren and Cara offer a grounded, human-first framework for navigating this transformation.If you’re curious how to make AI your creative collaborator rather than your competitor, this episode will give you a roadmap. You’ll learn:How to test AI tools safely and productively at workWhy “AI literacy” is the next essential career skillHow to balance efficiency with empathy in an automated worldHow transparency builds trust when using AI-generated contentWhy your unique human perspective is still your greatest edge

We've all heard it: “That’s above my pay grade.” In this “Wisdom Under Fire” episode, we debate the hidden implications of this common workplace phrase, from deflecting responsibility to signaling boundaries. Hosts Cara Wood and Lauren Livak Gilbert share strategies for navigating situations where tasks feel too high-profile, unclear, or political. You’ll learn how to respond with professionalism, protect your role, and foster better communication across teams.

Most of us approach year-end reviews with a deep sigh and a pile of paperwork. But what if you could turn that annual ritual into one of the most valuable career tools you have? In this episode of Unspoken Career Truths, hosts Cara Wood and Lauren Livak Gilbert unpack how to prepare, what to track, and how to use your review conversations to set yourself up for next-level growth. You’ll leave with practical strategies to approach your review with confidence, clarity, and a growth mindset.

Projects can go awry for all kinds of reasons - but one of the most frustrating ways to fail is scope creep. The expansion of a project or role beyond the initial goals and definitions. In this episode of Unspoken Career Truths, hosts Cara Wood and Lauren Livak Gilbert talk about what it is, why it happens and how to communicate these issues so your projects stay reasonable and meet their targets.

When you've got a big decision on the horizon it can feel overwhleming. Whether it's a career move, a relationship choice, or a personal goal, the weight of the decision-making process can be overwhelming. In this episode of Unspoken Career Truths, hosts Cara Wood and Lauren Livak Gilbert break down how to approach these moments, and how to employ the right framework to get an outcome you can be confident in.

Is following your passion the golden ticket to success?It’s time for another debate of commonly held wisdom! In this episode of Unspoken Career Truths, hosts Cara Wood and Lauren Livak Gilbert talk about the realities of pursuing what you love versus choosing a stable or well trod path.

If you don’t know your value, it’s hard to expect others to recognize or reward it. In this episode of Unspoken Career Truths, hosts Cara Wood and Lauren Livak Gilbert dive into practical ways to identify, track, and communicate your worth at work. From documenting your impact and asking for feedback to benchmarking your role against the market, you’ll learn strategies to overcome imposter syndrome and step into your career with confidence. Perfect for anyone preparing for a promotion, salary negotiation, or simply looking to own their impact.

Giving feedback is tricky—done wrong, it stings; done right, it sparks growth.n this episode of Unspoken Career Truths, hosts Cara Wood and Lauren Livak Gilbert break down how to move past vague notes and ego-driven critiques to deliver feedback that empowers. From practical tactics (mirror, don’t weaponize) to a simple framework—Context, Observations, Results, Expectations—they’ll show you how to be clear, constructive, and motivating. If you’ve ever wondered how to make your feedback land without crushing confidence, this conversation is for you.

Getting feedback can feel personal — but it’s actually one of the fastest ways to grow. In this episode of Unspoken Career Truths, hosts Cara Wood and Lauren Livak Gilbert unpack how to stay grounded when feedback stings, what to do in the moment, and how to turn critique into clarity.

Does measuring something really guarantee better results? In this Wisdom Under Fire episode of Unspoken Career Truths, hosts Cara Wood and Lauren Livak Gilbert unpack the famous phrase “what gets measured gets managed.” They explore where it came from, why it matters, and how to apply it in today’s workplace. From defining success early to quantifying the unquantifiable and tracking your own wins, you’ll learn practical ways to make sure your impact doesn’t go unnoticed.

Layoffs happen. And they impact the entire organization. Whether you’ve been laid off, left behind or you’ve been the one to wield the axe, there are tactics to employ and feelings to feel. In this episode of Unspoken Career Truths, hosts Cara Wood and Lauren Livak Gilbert discuss our experience in these positions and actionable things to do depending on how you are impacted.

Stress is part of life but how you manage it makes all the difference. In this episode of Unspoken Career Truths, hosts Cara Wood and Lauren Livak Gilbert explore the difference between healthy stress and harmful stress, share personal strategies to reduce overwhelm, and reveal simple practices like movement, creativity, and self-check-ins that can help you reset. Whether you’re navigating workplace pressure or everyday challenges, this episode will give you tools to recognize your triggers and create a stress management plan that actually works.

Influence matters more than job titles sometimes. In this episode of Unspoken Career Truths, hosts Cara Wood and Lauren Livak Gilbert break down what true influence looks like and what it doesn’t. Learn how to build credibility, practice empathy, communicate with clarity, and use storytelling to get buy-in without manipulation. Whether you’re early in your career or leading a team, this episode will give you practical strategies to grow your influence and make a lasting impact at work.

Is hustle culture driving your success or your burnout? In this episode of Unspoken Career Truths, hosts Cara Wood and Lauren Livak Gilbert debate the hustle culture mentality. From burnout and decision fatigue to redefining productivity and setting boundaries, they explore how to work hard without losing balance. Tune in for practical strategies to build a sustainable career that prioritizes both ambition and well-being.

Ever feel like you’re trying to “have it all” but still running on empty? In this episode of Unspoken Career Truths, hosts Cara Wood and Lauren Livak Gilbert explore the concept of “buckets” the areas of life that fuel your energy, identity, and fulfillment. From career and relationships to health, creativity, and purpose, learn how to define your own buckets, keep them balanced, and give yourself permission to let them shift over time. A quick guide to creating a more fulfilling and sustainable life.

Business lunches aren’t just about food they’re about first impressions, relationships, and professional etiquette. In this episode of Unspoken Career Truths, hosts Cara Wood and Lauren Livak Gilbert share the do’s and don’ts of dining in a professional setting. From menu prep to table manners, phone etiquette, and whether to order that glass of wine, you’ll learn the unspoken rules that can make or break a business meal. Perfect for interviews, networking lunches, or client meetings this is your quick guide to eating with confidence at work.

Forget the buzzwords—soft skills aren’t just nice to have. They’re the superpowers that shape careers. In this episode, hosts Cara Wood and Lauren Livak Gilbert dig into why adaptability, problem-solving, and EQ matter more than you think and how growth mindset research proves these skills are learnable. From interviews to everyday teamwork, learn how to identify your strengths, steal tricks from coworkers you admire, and own your unique toolkit. If you’ve ever wondered what skills hiring managers really look for, this episode is your playbook.

It's time for another debate! Is "dress for the job you want" good advice or does it add fuel to an already image-obsessed culture? In this episode of Unspoken Career Truths, hosts Cara Wood and Lauren Livak Gilbert put this "Wisdom Under Fire" and take different sides of the arguement.

Think success means climbing a straight ladder? Think again. In this episode of Unspoken Career Truths, hosts Cara Wood and Lauren Livak Gilbert share why careers are more like jungle gyms; zigzags, swings, and unexpected turns included. From owning non-traditional paths to letting go of “shoulds,” you’ll hear practical advice on finding fulfillment, defining success on your own terms, and embracing the freedom of a less linear career journey.

Ever accidentally eavesdrop on someone’s HR call? We did. Hosts Lauren Livak Gilbert and Cara Wood break down a real-life, emotionally charged conversation between a new restaurant employee (let’s call her Sarah) and HR—no real names, just vibes. This episode dives into the messy gray area of workplace relationships, trust, and communication. If you’ve ever been a new hire, had to discuss a complaint with HR, or just enjoy a little voyeuristic peek into workplace politics, this episode is for you!

Calling all control freaks - this episode is for you. Hosts Lauren Livak Gilbert and Cara Wood discuss how mapping out where you can have influence can help save your sanity in a stressful work environment and direct your energy towards the things that you can in fact change.

Let's debate a phrase you might hear everywhere: Can you really fake it til you make it? This is the first in our "Wisdom Under Fire" series where we take sides and debate whether common advice is helpful, hurtful, or something in between.

There's a secret to becoming an amazing negotiator and it's not about undermining or outwitting everyone around you. In this episode of Unspoken Career Truths, hosts Cara Wood and Lauren Livak Gilbert, discuss the insights you need to understand your own emotional responses to difficult conversations in order to stay calm and get what you want.

We all get the same 24 hours —but why does it feel like some people are getting so much more done? In this episode of Unspoken Career Truths, hosts Cara Wood and Lauren Livak Gilbert break down what real time management looks like at work—no 5 a.m. miracle routines, no color-coded calendars required. Learn how to take control of your day with time audits, focus rituals, and realistic prioritization techniques that actually fit into a busy life.

Welcome to the first episode of Unspoken Career Truths! We are your hosts Cara Wood and Lauren Livak Gilbert and we are here to be your trusted co-workers as you navigate your career.